Apple has revealed the next model of the Apple TV, and the tech giant is placing a strong emphasis on the gaming potential of the device.

The new Apple TV will come accompanied by a peripheral called the Siri Remote, which features functionality that extend its gaming potential far beyond that of your average remote. With built-in accelerometers and gyroscopes that offer support for motion controls similar to a Wiimote a touchpad akin to that on the PlayStation 4’s DualShock 4, the new Apple TV will have gaming-friendly control options right out of the box.

What’s more, the new Apple TV will also support third-party controllers who partner with Apple through the company’s MFi licensing program, paving the way for more traditional Bluetooth gamepads and more complex gaming experiences than touch and motion controls can offer.

Some of this compatibility was specifically detailed in the event, with Disney Infinity 3.0 and Guitar Hero Live both on display. The latter will make full use of the new six-button guitar peripheral. After the press event concluded, Activision also announced that a full version of Skylanders Superchargers would be coming to the device with a pack-in Bluetooth controller.

About Nick Plessas

Nick didn’t start gaming until mid-2006. Once his parents finally allowed a console into the house, it was all uphill from there. Starting out with a PS2, he grew an affinity for Sony consoles and moved on to the PS3, and now the PS4. He keeps his gaming palette wide, but, gun to his head, he’d have to say shooters are his genre of choice. Find him on Twitter @idole808

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Apple taking first steps into console gaming market with new Apple TV

Apple has revealed the next model of the Apple TV, and the tech giant is placing a strong emphasis on the gaming potential of the device.

The new Apple TV will come accompanied by a peripheral called the Siri Remote, which features functionality that extend its gaming potential far beyond that of your average remote. With built-in accelerometers and gyroscopes that offer support for motion controls similar to a Wiimote a touchpad akin to that on the PlayStation 4’s DualShock 4, the new Apple TV will have gaming-friendly control options right out of the box.

What’s more, the new Apple TV will also support third-party controllers who partner with Apple through the company’s MFi licensing program, paving the way for more traditional Bluetooth gamepads and more complex gaming experiences than touch and motion controls can offer.

Some of this compatibility was specifically detailed in the event, with Disney Infinity 3.0 and Guitar Hero Live both on display. The latter will make full use of the new six-button guitar peripheral. After the press event concluded, Activision also announced that a full version of Skylanders Superchargers would be coming to the device with a pack-in Bluetooth controller.

About Nick Plessas

Nick didn’t start gaming until mid-2006. Once his parents finally allowed a console into the house, it was all uphill from there. Starting out with a PS2, he grew an affinity for Sony consoles and moved on to the PS3, and now the PS4. He keeps his gaming palette wide, but, gun to his head, he’d have to say shooters are his genre of choice. Find him on Twitter @idole808